Federal wireless excise tax to be eliminated

In what should be music to the wireless industry's ears, US Treasury Secretary John Snow announced today that the Bush administration plans to eliminate the 3-percent federal excise on long-distance wireless and wireline services. At a press briefing, Snow said: "The federal appeals courts have spoken across the board. It's time to 'disconnect' this tax and put it on the permanent 'do not call' list." Yes, he really did say that. Snow also expressed support for a Senate measure that would remove the 3-percent tax from local wireless and wireless service as well. Losing the tax will cost the Treasury some $13 billion in refunds during 2007 and 2008. Individuals will simply have to claim the refund on their 2006 tax return.